What to Wear for a Job Interview: Do’s and Dont’s

Okay so you’ve landed the job interview of your dreams. You’ve done research on the company, you know what questions to ask and you’re even prepared for the questions they might ask. You sound like you’re good to go until you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and wonder if what you’re wearing is good enough for the interview. All of a sudden your confidence starts slipping away.

At any interview you have to remember that you are marketing yourself, so you definitely need to put your best foot forward when it comes to your image. “The attire is very important because it signifies some level of professionalism on the candidate’s part,” says Nilda Dorta, billing Manager at Executive Medical Services, PC in New York.

Presenting yourself in a professional manner doesn’t mean you have to go out and buy an expensive suit, rather do the research on the company and find out what works best with them. Always remember, when in doubt it’s better to keep things very conservative because it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed.

One simple suit is all you really need. A simple black suit can be used repeatedly and all you have to do is change the shirt, jewelry or scarf each time. Also, try to refrain from certain accessories. “I have seen candidates with pierced noses and tongues, spandex and tattoos! It’s just not professional. First impressions go a long way, says Ms. Dorta.

If you have leather shoes, make sure they’re shined and clean. If you have suede shoes, make sure they’re brushed. You don’t necessarily have to walk in with a leather briefcase; a nice portfolio binder will do just fine.

“A classic suit, understated,” works best in interviews says Ms. Dorta. “I have interviewed candidates that appear to have hopped out of bed and head in for the interview. Taking the time to groom sends a strong message that the candidate is serious about the job.”

Women’s Interview Attire

• Solid color, conservative suit
• Coordinated blouse
• Moderate shoes
• Limited jewelry
• Neat, professional hairstyle
• Tan or light hosiery
• Sparse make-up & perfume
• Manicured nails

Men’s Interview Attire

• Solid color, conservative suit
• White long sleeve shirt
• Conservative tie
• Dark socks, professional shoes
• Very limited jewelry
• Neat, professional hairstyle
• Neatly trimmed nails

Your professional image is extremely important because it shows that you really do care about the company and the position you’re applying for. It also gives a potential employer a glimpse of how you will represent them. Remember, first impressions do matter and they make a huge difference in whether you get the job or not.